Jesse Daniel "J.D." Melton, 87, died on Friday, March 10, 2023 at his residence in Creswell surrounded by his loving family.
Born February 29, 1936 in Halifax County he was the son of the late Jessie James Melton and Annie Hughes Eason Melton and was preceded in death by his loving wife, Nancy Lee Alston Melton; granddaughter, Emily Brook Byrum and brother Harry James Melton.
JD came to Creswell as a 22-year-old in 1958 to teach Agriculture at Creswell High School. During his 40 years as a teacher, he shared his love of plants, farming, woodworking, welding and everything else he thought the students needed to know. He was the advisor of the Creswell chapter of the Future Farmers of America and found great joy in getting the students involved in leadership opportunities, competitions and travel to the National Convention.
JD was an active member of the Creswell community: Volunteer Fireman, Volunteer EMT, Town Council (35+ years), Ruritan Club member, and anything else the town needed. Once he became an EMT he took the additional training so he could teach CPR to all of his students. He was always willing to share what he knew and to help in any way he could.
JD deeply loved his family and his community. He laughed when he played with his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He loved making popcorn at the school concession stand, helping organize the parades, and chatting with anyone who wanted to visit. He attended Mt. Tabor Free Will Baptist Church.
His family includes his daughters, Jennifer Melton Tingen of Creswell, NC and Mary Melton McCurry and husband Douglas of Charlotte, NC; sons, Jesse Daniel Melton, Jr. of Raleigh, NC and Christopher Paul Melton of Tyner, NC; brother, Howard Gene Melton of Rocky Mount, NC; sister, Margaret Ann Taylor of Beaufort, NC; grandchildren, Morgan Pallotta, Alexis Melton, Alex Melton and Micajah McCurry; great grandchildren, Blakelyn, Dani and Dominic.
Memorial service will be held Saturday, March 18, 2023 at 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Tabor Free Will Baptist Church, located at 2095 Mt. Tabor Road, Creswell with Al Markuson officiating. Family will receive friends on Friday, March 17, 2023 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the church and other times at the residence. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to Mt. Tabor Free Will Baptist Church, Creswell Volunteer Fire Department or Albemarle Commission Meals on Wheels.
Arrangements are by Maitland Funeral Home, Creswell.
